August Birthstone

Peridot, a symbol of vitality and is the gemstone for people born in August. The official name for peridot is olivine, and can be found in a wide spectrum of green from light-yellow to dark olive. It can bring peace, protection and sleep. It has also been worn to calm anger by soothing ones nerves, expelling negative energy. They also can attract love. The peridot has many symbolic purposes, one that it promises growth for the future and gives strength to individuals and those in relationships.

August is a month in which for many is viewed as the end of the summer cycle. A time when some need to make plans and begin preparing for the cooler months of fall. It is a time of harvest and hard work. Our bodies are challenged with physical work and long hours. This is a time when one might need to search for strength from an outside source or symbol. When the human condition falls short of spiritual or mental needs, these precious stones have been believed to gift their owners strength and endurance in many forms.

Birthstone for August - Peridot

Peridot jewelry is known for it’s shimmering yellow-green hue. The peridot gemstone is also the August birthstone, and it’s said to bring peace and good luck to its wearer. Peridot is a gem that forms deep inside the Earth and is brought to the surface by volcanoes - in Hawai’i, peridot symbolizes the tears of Pele, the goddess of fire. From lime green to olive, and even a deeper brown, there’s no mistaking the gorgeous peridot.

With a dazzling lime green hue, the Peridot signifies strength, morality and beauty. Peridot is believed to have magical powers with healing abilities that protect wearers against evil. The metaphysical properties found in this lovely gem of August are fame, protection and dignity.

The dazzling Peridot is the traditional birthstone for August. Those born in the month of August will benefit from the Peridot’s ability to enhance prosperity within one’s life. The sparkling green hue is reminiscent of a renewal of nature - a parallel to the coming of August and a new season. The Peridot, August birthstone could greatly protect the wearer from melancholy, enchantment and illusion.

Ancient legend believes that the green peridot crystals found in volcanic ashes were the tears of the volcano goddess, Pele. The word Peridot is derived from the Greek word “faridat”, meaing “gem”. This magical gem has truly captivated the attention of many for centuries.

August Birthstones

October also associated with Sardonyx - it is a form of onyx and is recognized by its layers of reddish brown and white banding.

Sardonyx

Sardonyx was popular with the ancient Greeks and Romans who carried into battle talismans of sardonyx engraved with images of heroes such as Mars or Hercules, believing that this would bring courage and victory. Because of its attractive banding, sardonyx has long been used to fashion cameos (carved raised figures) and intaglios (the reverse of cameos). This gemstone is found throughout the world. The most attractive specimens are found in India, but material also is mined in Czechoslovakia, Brazil, Uruguay, Germany, and in the United States.